Overview
A linear equation has degree one, meaning x appears only to the first power. The form ax + b = c is the simplest linear equation, and solving it means finding the x value that makes both sides equal.
Formula
From ax + b = c we get ax = c − b, then x = (c − b) ÷ a, provided a is not zero.
How it works
Write the equation
Identify the coefficient a, the constant b and the right side c.
Isolate the x term
Subtract b from both sides to get ax = c − b.
Divide by a
Divide both sides by a to obtain x.
Verify the solution
Substitute x into the original equation and confirm both sides match.
Worked examples
Example 1: 2x + 3 = 11
2x = 8, so x = 4. Check: 2(4) + 3 = 11.
Example 2: 5x − 10 = 0
5x = 10, so x = 2.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if a = 0?
The equation becomes b = c, which is either always true or always false, and there is no unique x.
Can I use decimals and fractions?
Yes. The calculator accepts decimals and negative numbers and shows the solution precisely.
What does verifying the solution mean?
Substituting x back into the original equation to confirm both sides are equal.
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.